Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that makes the organ pass more protein into the urine. It is caused by damage to clusters of small blood vessels that filter waste and excess water from the blood called glomeruli. As a result, people with nephrotic syndrome typically experience swelling, especially in the ankles and feet. The syndrome also increases the risk of other health problems due to the distressed organ.
Protein is an essential substance in the body. Protein wards off infections and repairs damaged tissues and muscles. However, when the glomeruli falter and don’t remove enough toxins, protein seeps into the urine, which causes elevated levels of the substance to leave the body. Once protein leaves the body, several problems can crop up due to the failure of the body to efficiently process the substance.
Foamy urine becomes more frequent when elevated levels of proteins become apparent in the urine, coupled with urination speed and other factors. Doctors suggest taking corticosteroids to control the immune system and decrease the inflammation in the organ. If left unchecked, nephrotic syndrome can cause irreparable kidney damage, that would require dialysis and kidney transplant.
